Ferrari has brought numerous one-of-a-kind masterpieces to the world through its Special Projects programme. The exclusive service, in which the automaker creates a bespoke vehicle based on the owner’s vision, is only available to the most dedicated Ferrari collectors. The latest addition to the One-Off series is the KC23, a futuristic track car based on the acclaimed 488 GT3 Evo 2020 race car.
Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre led by Flavio Manzoni, the owner’s brief was to imagine what the closed-wheel race car of the future may look like, and the project took three years to complete. The 488 GT3 was an obvious choice as the project’s base, as it’s the most successful race car from Maranello with over 530 wins and topping over 119 championships in endurance racing since 2016.
At a standstill, the KC23 looks almost like a statue with timeless, clean yet curvy lines. The aerodynamic panels and air intakes are only activated automatically when the mid-mounted V8 twin-turbo engine is on, and the dramatic rear wing is removable, allowing for a sleek appearance when desired without forsaking downforce and cooling. The wing mirrors are replaced with a camera system, the rear lights are changed to methacrylate light blades as inspired by the Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo, and the glass surfaces have been seamlessly integrated into the bodywork for a futuristic feel. It’s also difficult not to notice and appreciate the KC23’s butterfly doors, which open vertically on single front hinges, as found on the LaFerrari.
The Gold Mercury livery is the result of a specially-developed, four-layer aluminium paint with liquid metal. Not only does it have a luminous gleam under the sun, but the colour also seems to transform under different lights and angles. While the car runs on 18-inch wheels on the circuit, a separate set of 21-inch front and 22-inch rear wheels are fitted for public display.
The interior of the KC23 stays true to the 488 GT3 Evo — the only major differences being the door panels and dashboard finish on the passenger side.
The Ferrari KC23 will make its debut public appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this week, after which it will be on display at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello from 1 August to 2 October.
